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Road Trip: Historic Route 1 in Maine

  • 40
  • 13:25
  • 599 mi
  • $83
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Created by Tatiana Danger - March 27th 2019

US 1 south of Calais was initially part of the Atlantic Highway, and became Route 1 when the New England road marking system was established in 1922.[3] The northward continuation from Calais was later designated as part of Route 24. In the original plan, Route 24 was to run from Brunswick to Moosehead Lake in Greenville. By 1925, however, Maine had transferred the Route 24 designation to a completely new alignment on the eastern edge of the state, running from Calais to Madawaska at a border crossing with Edmundston, New Brunswick.

The initial 1925 plan for the U.S. Highway system took US 1 along the better-quality inland route (then Route 15)[4] between Bangor and Houlton, and placed US 2 on the coastal route.[5] This changed in the final 1926 plan, when the inland shortcut — now generally followed by Interstate 95 - became part of US 2.[6]

The Waldo-Hancock Bridge opened in 1931,[7] allowing US 1 to bypass Bangor; the old route became US 1A.

The portion between Portland and Brunswick was rebuilt, mainly as a four-lane divided highway, in the 1950s, and later absorbed into I-95 (now I-295). A freeway from Brunswick east to Bath was built in the 1960s.

1

3 Market St, Fort Kent, ME, US

Fort Kent Historical Society & Gardens

1

"It is a museum located in former Bangor & Aroostook Railroad station. It exhibits local memorabilia and the history of the area, especially lumbering and agriculture. Museum located in former Bangor & Aroostook Railroad station. Local memorabilia and exhibits on the history of the area, especially lumbering and agriculture. Open summers Tuesday through Friday 1-4."

2
19mi 00h 27m

201 Fox St, Madawaska, ME, US

Skylite Drive in Fox Theater

2

"“the northern most drive-in east of the Mississippi River” Originally built in 1973 the drive in is the only operating drive in north of Skowhegan. They hold claim of being the northern most drive-in east of the Mississippi River. Shows start at dusk and there is an extensive menu of good food and treats to keep you satisfied while watching the feature presentation."

3
67mi 01h 25m
Photo of Mapleton Diner
4.8

1716 Main St, Mapleton, ME, US

Mapleton Diner

3

"People talk about homemade donuts, breakfast and fish chowder."

4
7mi 00h 11m
Photo of Maine Solar System Model
4.0

US Route 1, Presque Isle, ME, US

Maine Solar System Model

4

"Aroostook County, in Northern Maine, is building a 40 mile (64.6 km) long scale model of the solar system, at a scale of 1 mile equaling the distance from earth to sun. The model extends along Route 1, between the University of Maine at Presque Isle campus and the Houlton Information Center at the end of I-95. The model has ten major components, those being the sun and the nine planets from Mercury to Pluto, with moons for Earth, Saturn, Jupiter (4) and Pluto. The model serves as an educational resource and tourist attraction. It will also draw attention to Northern Maine, The University at Presque Isle, and the Northern Maine Museum of Science located there. All planets except Pluto would be visible from the road. Educational information on the planets would be found in the brochure, available at the Information Center in Houlton. The small models are mounted on tall - ten foot high above ground level - posts to be viewed from the car, with the planets included within a 1-foot (3.048 dm) diameter semicircular structure to better show the tilt of the planets. The planets are exhibited as three-dimensional models. The two largest planetary models Jupiter and Saturn measure 4-5 feet across (1.22 - 1.52 m) and the two mid-sized planets Uranus and Neptune measuring 21-22 inches (53 - 56 cm) require rather substantial monuments. However, there is local precedent and experience for models of this size, as both Presque Isle and Caribou have built large, permanent, monuments commemorating the first two balloon crossings of the Atlantic Ocean. These include models of the balloon envelopes that are larger in size than the envisioned planets. These models were constructed largely by local technical and high schools and funded by local service organizations. The solar system model requires a similar process in which local individuals and organizations take a direct role in construction and financing. The last planet, Uranus, was set on its base on June 13th. The formal unveiling of the Maine Solar System Model happened at 1:00 on Saturday, June 14th 2003."

5
7mi 00h 13m
Photo of Aroostook State Park
4.4

96 Old State Park Rd., Presque Isle, ME, US

Aroostook State Park

5

“Maine's First State Park!” Aroostook State Park bears the distinct honor of being Maine's first state park. In 1938 interested citizens of Presque Isle donated 100 acres of land to the State of Maine, and following that gesture, the park became reality in 1939. Today the park totals nearly 800 acres thanks to subsequent donations and purchases. Aroostook State Park is the ideal starting point for discovering the North Maine Woods, the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, and the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Quebec. Encompassing Quaggy Jo Mountain and Echo Lake, the park offeres a unique chance to study our geologic past. In fact, Quaggy Jo is the shortened from of its Indian name, "Qua Qua Jo" which translates to "twin peaked."

6
12mi 00h 18m

84 Benjamin St, Mars Hill, ME, US

The Rusty Crab

6

"Family seafood takeout in Mars Hill, we specialize in seafood but offer many other items as well, hope to serve you soon!!!

Founding date 2011

Products Fresh seafood, burgers, pasta, salads and homemade hushpuppies."

7
28mi 00h 36m

5 Water St, Houlton, ME, US

Sadie's Bakery

7

"Established in 1948 Sadie's Bakery has been providing the area with incredible home baked goods. Specializing in doughnuts and bread. Made fresh every day."

8
30mi 00h 37m

Route 1, Danforth, ME, US

Maine Wilderness Trips With Canoe The Wild

8

"Canoe the Wild offers canoeing adventures in Northern Maine and Eastern Canada for the beginner and seasoned paddler alike. Canoe trips are a great way to experience nature, view wildlife, learn a new skill, take pictures, catch a fish, have fun and connect with family and friends. Maine and Canada are great destinations for those looking for a leisurely time or exciting and remote back country adventure. Canoe the Wild is committed to a higher then expected level of service, an uncommon attention to details.

Canoe the Wild is owned and operated by Dave Conley, Registered Maine Guide. He has been paddling the rivers of Maine and Canada for over 30 years. During the school year, Dave teaches an outdoor education program at East Grand High School in Danforth, host to the annual East Grand Adventure Race. In the fall, guided moose hunts are offered in northern Maine from remote outpost camps.

Contact Dave to discuss putting a trip together for your family, group, or join others on an outing."

9
68mi 01h 26m

P.O. Box 247, Calais, ME, US

Saint Croix Island

9

"“1st French colonisation attempt” Saint Croix Island is the 1604 site of the first French attempt to colonize the territory they called l'Acadie and the location of one of the earliest European settlements in North America. Members of a French expedition led by Pierre Dugua, intending to colonize North America, settled the island in 1604. Seventy-nine members of the expedition, including Samuel Champlain, passed the severe winter of 1604-1605 on the island. Thirty-five settlers died, apparently of scurvy, and were buried in a small cemetery on Saint Croix Island. In spring 1605 the survivors left the island and founded the settlement of Port Royal, Nova Scotia. It is composed of a mainland site and 6.5-acre Saint Croix Island. Facilities at the mainland site include: a visitor contact station, an outdoor interpretive shelter,picnic tables, a pit toilet, and an unimproved boat launch."

10
23mi 00h 30m

"The Dennysville Historic District encompasses the historic town center of Dennysville, Maine. Located near the southern end of the large rural community, its architecture covers more than 100 years of community history, from the early 19th to early 20th centuries. The district extends along Main Street between Maine State Route 86 and Bunker Hill Road, on the west bank of the Dennys River. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982."

11
9mi 00h 12m

"The Union Meeting House, also known as the Whiting Community Church, is a historic church building at 153 United States Route 1 in Whiting, Maine. Built in 1836, it is a distinctive local example of transitional Federal-Greek Revival architecture. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014."

12
13mi 00h 16m

State Route 1aeast Machias, Maine, Machias, ME, US

Riverside Inn, Machias

12

"“snuggled on on the East Machias River” The Riverside Inn and Restaurant is located on scenic U.S. Route 1 in East Machias, on the East Machias River. Built in the 1800s, the original house served as home to two sea captains until the early 1900s. We are one of the more established inns in the Machias area, just a few minutes from downtown Machias. Our inn and restaurant are open year 'round. Guests of our B&B receive a hearty, freshly prepared breakfast each morning. Down East sightseeing opportunities abound. Hiking, bird watching, beachcombing, and puffin tours are only minutes away. Close by are golf courses, fresh and saltwater fishing, and guided tours and rentals for sea kayaking and canoeing. The Riverside Inn & Restaurant is also less than a two-hour drive to Acadia National Park and St. Andrews, New Brunswick."

13
19mi 00h 25m

146 Main St, Columbia Falls, ME, US

Ruggles House

13

"Built in 1818, this historic house museum is a classic example of Federal style architecture. The famous flying staircase is a central feature."

14
12mi 00h 15m

17 Main St, ME, US

44 Degrees North

14

"44° North has an extensive Dinner menu featuring a variety of char-grilled steaks & chicken, seafood selections ranging from traditional Downeast fried seafood to mouth watering parmesan crusted haddock, genourous portions of heaping pasta dishes, 8oz. chopped sirloin burgers, fresh made specialty salads and a whole page dedicated to appetizer selections. We also feature a separate Lunch menu from 11am to 4pm which includes fresh made sandwiches and wraps and a delicious 4oz. lunch burger for only $4.We offer daily lunch and dinner specials featuring new and exciting food selections guaranteed to tempt your taste buds. Be sure to join us every Friday and Saturday night for slow roasted Prime Rib."

15
47mi 01h 01m
Photo of Acadia National Park
4.7

25 Visitor Center Road, Bar Harbor, ME, US

Acadia National Park

15

"“Explore the first Eastern national park” Acadia National Park is a National Park located in the U.S. state of Maine. It reserves much of Mount Desert Island, and associated smaller islands, off the Atlantic coast. It's a stunningly beautiful place to unwind. The park is home to many plants and animals, and the tallest mountain on the U.S. Atlantic coast. Today visitors come to Acadia to hike granite peaks, bike historic carriage roads, or relax and enjoy the scenery. The park includes mountains, an ocean shoreline, woodlands, and lakes. "

16
26mi 00h 35m

1424 Us Highway 1, ME, US

Village Cafe

16

"Amazing food, great homemade pies, baked goods and coffee - and homemade ice cream!"

17
28mi 00h 35m

30 Rt 46, Bucksport, ME, US

Crosby's Drive-in

17

"“proudly serving Bucksport for over 70 years” Crosby’s Drive-In and Dairy Bar has been proudly serving Bucksport, the surrounding communities, and out of state visitors for over 70 years. Founded in 1938 by Elton ‘Fat’ Crosby and his wife Margaret, Crosby’s is an icon that reaches across generations. Over this time, there have only been three separate owners to carry on the legacy. The current owners, Tom and Jen Pappas, have maintained this tradition since they inherited the business from relatives Tom and Helen Christakos in 1980. Together these families have carried on a classic summer tradition for three quarters of a century. A seasonal eatery that is open from mid-April to Labor Day weekend, Crosby’s menu offers a variety of food items that include seafood, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and endless flavors of ice cream. We are best known for our famous fried clams, home-made onion rings, fresh lobster and crabmeat rolls and burgers made from locally sourced ground beef. Although we are passionate about our rich history and work to preserve our classic image, Crosby’s attempts to meet the demands of this ever-growing modern world. We incorporate as many local and sustainable products as possible including our seafood, ice cream, ground beef, bread products, french fries, condiments, and even our green cleaning products. Come to Crosby’s Drive-In and Dairy Bar for a classic dining experience that will keep you coming back."

18
2mi 00h 04m
Photo of Penobscot Narrows Bridge
4.5

Route 1, Prospect, ME, US

Penobscot Narrows Bridge

18

"The Penobscot Narrows Bridge is a long cable-stayed bridge that carries US 1/SR 3 over the Penobscot River. It connects Verona Island to Prospect, in the U.S. state of Maine. It replaced the Waldo–Hancock Bridge, built in 1931."

19
10mi 00h 12m
Photo of Captain A.V. Nickels Inn
4.5

127 E Main St, Searsport, ME, US

Captain A.V. Nickels Inn

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$$

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great deal!

19

"“get cozy in the Maine hospitality” The Captain A.V. Nickels Inn is centrally located in Mid-Coast Maine, half way between Camden and Bar Harbor, with easy access to and from airports, state parks, shopping areas, and other attractions. The inn is situated on US Route 1 in Searsport, directly on the shores of Penobscot Bay. Our historic Inn sits on three ocean-side acres with beautiful gardens, a fountain and walkways to shoreline seating. In season we have croquet, badminton, and horseshoes on the lawn. There are classic Adirondack chairs by the ocean’s edge for quiet moments of reflection. Guest areas include two sitting rooms, a library, a lounge for evening wine and cheese served to all guests, a dinning room, a breakfast conservatory, and loggia with views to the bay. After having slept in spacious suites beautifully furnished with antiques and sumptuous beds, overnight guests awake to the site of the sunrise across the bay and will enjoy a three-course gourmet Mimosa breakfast in the Inn’s sunlit conservatory. The murmur of waves from the bay and wonderful sea air enhance the restful atmosphere. All rooms have private baths, flat screen TV’s, and wireless internet capabilities. "

20
19mi 00h 25m

2456 Atlantic Hwy, ME, US

Green Tree Coffee & Tea

20

"Green Tree Coffee & Tea began in January of 2002. We initially focused on roasting and packaging coffee specifically for the hospitality market, but have come a long way since then! Our gourmet coffee and tea product line has been greatly expanded to the retail marketplace. We're also very proud to say we now have a coffee roasting & retail location in Lincolnville, Maine! Green Tree Coffee is also a dog friendly company. Staying true to our commitment to support animals, we are a business donor to P.A.W.S Animal Adoption Center (locations in Mid-Coast Maine). P.A.W.S helps to find good adoption homes for hundreds of dogs and cats every year. Mission: We take tremendous pride in supporting charitable organizations that share our philosophy of social, cultural and environmental responsibility. We are as committed to fine coffees as we are to the environment; and truly believe that one way to ensure the viability of our future generations is through the establishment of land trusts"

Tatiana Danger

Roadtrippers co-founder. When I grow up I'm going to be Indiana Jones or a professional pizza tester. Current Status: Mom to Bruce and Nina.